ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION and YOUR EYES

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Most of us know that in the summer we should put on a good sunscreen to protect exposed skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. The sunburn that hurts for a few days is bad enough but we now know that UV exposure can lead to skn cancer many years later.

The eyes are also very susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation, and this is not just a summertime problem. Ultraviolet light is absorbed by the eye throughout the year, and the effects are cumulative.

The front of the eye is the cornea with the crystalline lens right behind it. These two structures absorb, and are affected by, UV-B radiation. Another type of ultraviolet light, UV-A reaches the back of the eye where it can affect the Retina and Macula, the areas that generate the nerve impulses that we see as images.

It is now known that long term exposure to UV radiation contributes to a variety of deterioting conditions of the eyes. These include:

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) – deterioration of the central part of the retina that causes blurring, distortions, or blind spots, and affects almost 2 million Americans over the age of 40.
Cataracts – clouding of the crystalline lens that causes increasing blurring and “hazy” vision that eventually leads to blindness, though in the US this is usually treated by replacing the natural lens with an artificial implant… a procedure that has become relatively simple, safe, and common among patients over 60.
Diabetic Retinopathy – caused by the progression of Diabetes this is the leading cause of blindness in America. UV exposure is believed to contribute to the changes in the blood vessels that nourish the retina.
Pterygium – a fatty growth, usually benign, that can form on the front surface of the eye, and can interfere with vision if it grows near or over the cornea.
Photokeratitis – a “sunburn” of the eye, can be very painful causing tearing, extreme light sensitivity, blurred vision, and redness but generally heals within 24 – 48 hours.
Skin Cancer around the Eyelids – UV radiation can cause melanoma anywhere skin is overly exposed, but around the eyes it is more common on the lower lids.

Today’s eyewear is designed to filter almost all UV-A and UV-B and is the best protection from a lifetime of exposure to the harmful rays. PLUS a good pair of sunglasses will reduce the bright glare that causes hazy, strained vision.

The National Eye Institute (2009) has published the following recommendations:

Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays, even on cloudy days.
If you wear a prescription, Transitions® lenses are a good everyday option. They are as clear as ordinary lenses indoors, but turn sunglass dark outdoors depending on the intensity of UV rays — reducing glare and making the eyes more comfortable. They also block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Even regular clear lenses should have UV inhibitors; check with your eyecare professional (NOTE: All lenses dispensed by OPTICS PLUS are guaranteed to block at least 98% of UV-A and UV-B)
Choose larger sized frames and lenses, especially for outdoor wear, to shield more of your eyes, and wear a wide-brimmed hat to block more sunlight from reaching the top and sides of your head.
If you wear Contact Lenses ask about getting ones that block UV radiation (many lens manufacturers offer this) but remember they do not protect the areas around the eyes. A good pair of non-prescription sunglasses with UV protection is still recommended.

Don’t forget the importance of a routine eye exam. Aside from correcting changes in your vision, an annual eye exam could provide early detection of any of these diseases, as well as many other systemic conditions.

The information presented here is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace medical advice. If you believe you have an eye condition, please contact us at 516-367-2020.